144 on the Hill bar review
144 on the Hill bar review
Angela Zaher checks out the cocktails and small plates at this gorgeous bar atop Richmond Hill
In the scenic setting of the Richmond Hill Hotel, 144 On The Hill is a chic lounge, bar, restaurant and has an outdoor terrace for sunny days. The decor is stylish with a clever mix of period features, modern touches and luxurious velvet sofas to sink in to The effect is relaxed glamour which lends itself very well to unwinding with friends over cocktails and nibbles.
I went to the lounge with two friends and we tried out some of their signature cocktails (all at £12.95 each). For me, our friendly waitress Juan recommended the Lime Leaf, a delicious mix of their own infused lime leaf and basil gin, syrup, fresh basil and lemon. It was a theatrical cocktail that came in a bottle which when poured into the small coupe cocktail glass, produced lots of smoke thanks to dry ice. It was as refreshing as I hoped it to be, but I would have liked more of it.
The R&R, with rhubarb and raspberry gin, fresh raspberry and lime, cranberry juice and juniper foam came in a slim tall elegant glass. In a beautiful shade of scarlet, it had a balanced sweetness to it. A classic Tommy’s Margarita had a fantastic kick and just the right tart note. The wine list is extensive in regions, grape varieties and with helpful tasting notes. Pleasant to note that it’s also reasonably priced.
The bar & lounge menu is a mix of small plates, sandwiches and burgers. We didn’t try the burgers but they looked good as they were delivered to a table next to us with their brioche buns, stacked high with fillings and served with fries. Their price range is between £17-20. We had the teriyaki duck confit spring rolls (£11 for two) which were densely packed with confit and substantial. Salt & pepper chilli squid (£10) was spot on in chewiness and stickiness, very moreish. The beetroot & lentil bites (£6 for three) were beautifully presented with scattered pomegranates and swirls of curried mayo and tasted just as good, a clever combination of sweet beetroot and earthy lentils.
The tasty cocktails, food and friendly service combined with the elegant decor makes 144 On The Hill a welcoming destination for a grown up night out.
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